In May 2012 the South African GMO regulators (the Executive Council) approved Dow’s 2,4-D tolerant GM maize, dubbed ‘Agent Orange’ maize, for import into South Africa. In the ensuing public outcry, the ACB submitted a petition to Parliament, signed by over 7,000 individuals including many of you, and 18 health professionals, calling for a reversal of the decision, and a complete review of the GMO decision-making process in South Africa. Though the petition was submitted to the Parliament more than a year ago, we are still in the dark as to its status. Meanwhile, Dow continues to apply for import approval for its 2,4-D tolerant GM maize, most recently in July 2013, for a GM maize variety engineered to tolerate toxic combinations of 2,4-D, glufosinate and glyphosate.

The Indian Supreme Court has recommended an indefinite moratorium on field trials of GM crops until the Indian government fixes regulatory and safety measures. Italy is moving to ban Monsanto and all GM crops. Monsanto is losing its hold in Europe… And NOW it is our turn in South Africa to put an end to this.

So please, it is extremely important to sign the petition to support this intervention, and to please get at least 10 others to do the same. We need high numbers to strengthen our case that we are busy preparing.

You can be assured that the ACB will do everything we can to put an end to this. We ask that you please do what you can too, and help us.

As always, we thank you for your continued support and your feedback is always welcome.